According to France Football, as cited by GFFN, Arsenal are interested in the services of Dan-Axel Zagadou. The Borussia Dortmund defender has been identified as one of Unai Emery’s desired targets as he seeks to shore up his side’s defence this summer.
The report claims that Arsenal are aware they do not have the financial backing to make a move for Zagadou. But, it could be possible if they sell at least two of their unwanted players this summer.
Zagadou’s promising spell at Dortmund
Zagadou started out his career at Dortmund poorly after initially joining the club for free two seasons ago. During his debut campaign at Ruhrpott, the Frenchman was often overlooked by Peter Stoger as he ended up featuring in only 651 minutes of league football.
However, the young defender enjoyed a promising spell under newly appointed Lucien Favre during the 2018/19 campaign. The Swiss mastermind gave him the opportunity of impressing in central defence alongside Manuel Akanji with Abdou Diallo featuring as the left-back.
The 20-year-old played in quite a lot of matches during the Hinrunde. But, that was before an unfortunate metatarsal bone bruise minimised his overall game-time to just 1,266 Bundesliga minutes. He also suffered a knee injury during the final phase of the campaign, which kept him out for four matches.
What can Zagadou bring to the table?
Boasting a mammoth 1.96m frame, Zagadou is known for his physically dominant presence in defence. His height gives him a considerable advantage in the air, which not only makes him effective in headed duels but also helps him provide a great deal of threat from set-pieces.
The Frenchman’s passing is questionable at times and needs to improve. Additionally, Zagadou doesn’t do well under pressure, but that could improve with more experience at the highest level of football.
Should Arsenal make a move for Zagadou?
Zagadou is definitely one of the most talented young defenders in Europe. And he will be able to provide stiff competition in the Arsenal defence. But, spending a considerable amount of money on a player, who may not yet be ready for regular first-team football might not be the most prudent decision by Emery given his slender transfer budget this summer.
Besides, it’s doubtful whether the Frenchman would want to sacrifice regular Champions League football with Borussia Dortmund in favour of a move to Arsenal, who are unlikely to offer him regular game-time either. Hence, the Gunners should shift their focus onto a more well-established and cheaper alternative. Someone like Armando Izzo could be an exciting option for Emery.
